Per Mertesacker left Arsenal at the end of last season after overseeing the men’s academy since 2018.
Arsenal’s search for his replacement has identified Strasbourg technical director Kevin De Maesschalck as a leading contender.
De Maesschalck joined Strasbourg in 2024 following three years as Monaco’s academy manager and a decade as technical director at Club Brugge. His current role includes senior‑team responsibilities within the BlueCo multi‑club structure.
Mertesacker announced his decision to step down in January, describing Arsenal as a special club and thanking the organization for the trust placed in him when he moved directly from player to academy head.
He said his focus remains on finishing the season strongly, continuing to develop young talent and ensuring a seamless transition until his final day.
Arsenal’s statement noted that Mertesacker built a vision to develop “strong young Gunners,” many of whom have progressed to the first team or forged successful careers elsewhere.
The club highlighted his philosophy of “better people making better players,” which has embedded Arsenal’s values throughout the academy.
